A Chinese firm has acquired the technology for a flying car, originally developed and successfully tested in Europe.

Powered by a BMW engine and conventional fuel, the AirCar completed a 35-minute flight between two Slovakian airports in 2021, utilizing runways for both take-off and landing. Its transformation from car to aircraft took just over two minutes.

Now, vehicles based on their design are slated for use within a specified geographic area of China. Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Company, based in Cangzhou, has secured exclusive rights to manufacture and deploy AirCar aircraft within this undisclosed region.

The company established its own airport and flight school subsequent to a prior acquisition from another Slovak aircraft manufacturer, according to Anton Zajac, cofounder of KleinVision, the company behind AirCar.

China, having played a leading role in the electric vehicle revolution, is actively pursuing aerial transportation solutions. Last month, Autoflight conducted a test flight of a passenger-carrying drone between Shenzhen and Zhuhai, completing the journey in 20 minutes compared to the three-hour car trip. In 2023, eHang, a Chinese firm, received safety certification from Chinese officials for its electric flying taxi. Meanwhile, the UK government anticipates flying taxis becoming commonplace by 2028.

Unlike drone-like passenger aircraft, Aircar does not feature vertical take-off and landing capabilities and requires a traditional runway.

KleinVision declined to disclose the sale price of the technology. Aircar obtained a certificate of airworthiness from the Slovak Transport Authority in 2022, which was showcased in a video by YouTuber Mr. Beast earlier this year.

However, significant obstacles remain for this mode of transportation, including infrastructure, regulation, and public acceptance.

Aviation consultant Steve Wright remarked that the advent of personal aerial transport acts as an equalizer, although global attempts to regulate the sector present numerous challenges. China’s proactive approach may afford it a competitive advantage, similar to its leadership in the electric car market.

While prototypes like AirCar are intriguing, the reality may involve mundane factors such as queues and security checks.